Confidence Is Back — and the South West Property Market Is Proof
If you have been watching the property market and wondering whether the time is right to sell, the latest Rightmove House Price Index offers some genuinely encouraging reading — both nationally and right here in the South West.
The Strongest Start to the Year Since 2020
Asking prices are up 2.8% since December, making this the strongest start to a year for prices since 2020. Much of that growth came in January as buyer and seller confidence rebounded sharply once the autumn Budget uncertainty ended. February held those gains rather than adding to them — experts describe this as a natural pause, not a reversal. Prices are level with a year ago nationally, which combined with average earnings growth of 4.7% year-on-year means buyers are in a considerably stronger position to afford a move than they were twelve months ago.
The South West Picture
Closer to home, the average asking price in the South West currently stands at £371,515, with a 0.5% month-on-month rise recorded in February. On average, it takes around 89 days to secure a buyer in the region — a figure that underlines why choosing an agent with genuine local knowledge and a proactive marketing approach makes a real difference to your result.
A Better Environment for Buyers Means More Opportunity for Sellers
The average two-year fixed mortgage rate now stands at 4.28%, significantly down from 4.96% a year ago, saving buyers around £100 per month on a typical purchase. Lenders have also been given greater flexibility on loan-to-income limits, meaning more buyers can borrow what they need. However, with the number of homes for sale at an eleven-year high nationally, the market remains price-sensitive. Sellers who come to market with a well-researched, realistic asking price achieve the best outcomes — getting it right from day one is essential.
Ready to Find Out What Your Home Is Worth?
Spring is the most active selling season, and all the signs point to a strong 2026 market. If you have been considering a move, now is the ideal time to understand your options and get the groundwork in place.
We would love to talk. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation market appraisal of your home and find out exactly what your property could achieve in today's market. Whether you are ready to go now or still weighing up your options, we are here to help you plan your next move with confidence. To book in an appointment or receive an instant valuation you can do so by clicking HERE
Call us on, pop in, or get in touch via our website — we would be delighted to hear from you.
